Treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung degeneration using activated fibroblasts and exosome derivatives thereof

Abstract

Embodiments of the disclosure include methods and compositions for treatment of lung disease, including at least chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In particular cases, fibroblasts (including activated fibroblasts) and/or exosomes thereof are provided to an individual for the treatment of COPD. In particular cases the fibroblasts are activated and/or express one or more particular markers.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of treating or preventing lung disease or lung degeneration in an individual, comprising the step of administering an effective amount of fibroblasts and/or exosomes thereof to an individual with lung disease or lung degeneration or at risk for lung disease or lung degeneration. 
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the fibroblasts are activated and/or express one or more specific markers. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 2 , wherein the fibroblasts are activated by exposure to at least one toll like receptor agonist and/or by exposure to Activated Protein C. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 3 , wherein the toll like receptor is TLR-1, TLR-2, TLF-3, TLR-4, TLR-5, TLR-6, TLR-7, TLR-8, or TLR-9. 
     
     
         5 . The method of any one of  claim 2, 3, or 4 , wherein the fibroblasts express one or more markers selected from the group consisting of CD31, CD73, and a combination thereof. 
     
     
         6 . The method of any one of  claims 1-5 , wherein the lung disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, partial or complete lung collapse, lung infection, pulmonary edema, pulmonary embolus, bronchitis, emphysema, or a combination thereof. 
     
     
         7 . The method of any one of  claims 1-6 , wherein the individual is or was a smoker. 
     
     
         8 . The method of any one of  claims 1-7 , wherein the individual is provided an effective amount of another therapy for the lung disease. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein the other therapy comprises short- and long-acting beta2-agonists, anticholinergics, one or more corticosteroids, one or more phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors, theophylline, supplemental oxygen therapy, and/or surgery.